Cheap Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Above-average ratings, below-average prices, no fake reviews.

These affordable gifts are organized by interest, suitable for kids and adults, and are small enough to fit within a person’s hand. All of them are priced at $25 or under and have been pre-screened for fake reviews.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I might earn a referral fee (at no expense to you) when you click a link.

Merriam-Webster defines stocking stuffer as “a small gift suitable for placing in a Christmas stocking.” The origin of the Christmas stocking isn’t known, but the tradition dates back to at least 1823, when “Clement Clarke Moore (or possibly Henry Livingston Jr.) wrote ‘A Visit From Saint Nicholas,” according to Smithsonian Magazine.

However, the phrase “stocking stuffer” didn’t exist until much later: around 1958. Today, there are more than 12,000,000 Google results for the phrase. So, if you’ve found your way to this gift guide, you’ve beaten the odds. I’ll do my best not to disappoint.

Below is a collection of inexpensive gifts (under $25) that are small enough to fit inside of a Christmas stocking. Small, practical gifts are often regarded as tasteful and considerate. (A big gift that causes a feeling of obligation to return the favor isn’t generous, it’s imposing.) Rather than sort these stocking stuffers “for men, women and kids” they are presented by interest.

Gifts for Artists

• Elmer’s 3D Washable Glitter Glue Pens — Elmer’s glitter glue pens are somewhat of a misnomer (they’re more like storage tubes), but parents appreciate this relatively mess-free way for kids to add a touch of glitter to their craft projects. A good value at $5 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Fun Foam Modeling Foam Beads Play Kit — Fun Foam is a Play-Doh alternative that doesn’t dry out and it cleans up easily, making it a practical gift for children and aspiring sculptors. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Melissa & Doug Scratch Art Activity Kit — Melissa & Doug’s scratch art kit is fun for children and adults alike. Artists who sell handmade products (on Etsy, etc.) may find the rainbow prints inspiring. A good value at $5 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Metropolitan Collection Fountain Pen — Pilot’s Japanese-made fountain pen is a quirky-yet-practical gift for writers, calligraphers, illustrators, nostalgists, professors and history buffs. A good value at $22 or less. (Available at Amazon, Staples and Office Depot.)
• Palomino Blackwing Pencil (12-Count) — Blackwing 602 pencils were used by Walt Disney, Chuck Jones and other famous artists. These replica Blackwing pencils are a perfect gift for writers, animators, Disney-lovers and nostalgists. A good value at $23 or less. (Available at Amazon and Blick.)
• Sakura Cray-Pas Junior Artist Oil Pastels — Sakura’s oil pastels are a great introduction into color theory and blending, making them an ideal gift for budding young artists or recent retirees. A good value at $11 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and Blick.)
• WikkiStix Neon Colors (Made in USA) — WikkiStix are portable, durable and infinitely configurable, making them an excellent way to keep children busy at a restaurant without resorting to screen time. A good value at $9 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)

Gifts for Beauty Lovers

• Betty Dain Fashionista Shower Cap — The perfect gift for anyone who can’t find a good showercap, Betty Dain’s fashion cap also doubles as a practical travel gift. A good value at $7 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Bucky 40 Blinks Midnight Floral Eye Mask — A sleep mask can be a thoughtful gift for students, night-shift workers and new parents. Amazingly, even a dim street lamp can interrupt a person’s sleep, according to a recent study. A good value at $11 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and Bed Bath and Beyond).
• Burt’s Bees Renewal Firming Eye Cream with Bakuchiol — A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science suggests that Bakuchiol reduces fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. Note: This gift is not suitable for pregnant women. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Amazon, Rite Aid and Kohl’s).
• Ora Facial Microneedle Roller System 0.25mm — “Microneedling” sounds like snake-oil, but when the skin is pricked with small needles, the body responds with collagen and protein that makes skin look younger and reduces the appearance of scars. A good value at $25 or less. (Available at SkinStore, Dermstore and Ulta).
• Schick Silk Touch-Up Face Razors — Many beauty bloggers use these eyebrow razors to remove peach fuzz, sculpt eyebrows or dermaplane at-home. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Bed Bath & Beyond and Ulta).
• UBeesize Smartphone Ring Light — A ring light is a fun gift for photographers, filmmakers and beauty bloggers who post photos and videos to social media sites like Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. A good value at $20 or less. (Available at Amazon.)

Gifts for Campers

• Campsuds Biodegradable Outdoor Soap (Made in USA) — Campsuds is an eco-friendly, all-purpose soap that makes a practical stocking stuffer for campers, hikers and backpackers alike. It also comes in handy on fishing boats and recreational vehicles. A good value at $5 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (Made in USA) — Darn Tough’s woolen boot socks are built to last, and if they don’t, they are guaranteed for life. These socks make a great gifts for campers, hikers, skiers, snowboarders and anyone in cold climates. A good value at $18 or less. (Available at Amazon, L.L. Bean and Zappos).
• HotHands Hand Warmers (3 Pair) — These chemically-activated hand warmers are compact, long-lasting and ideal for camping, sports, dog-walking or even indoor usage on a cold day. A good value at $3 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Marie’s Original Poison Ivy Soap Bar (Made in USA) — Marie’s triple-acting black soap reduces itching caused by poison ivy, oak or sumac. It’s a thoughtful stocking stuffer for campers, gardeners or anyone who lives in a wooded area. A good value at $10 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and The Grommet).
• Rite in the Rain Water Resistant Notebook (Made in USA) — Rite-in-the-Rain notebooks are a practical gift for campers, journalists and scientists. On top of that, these water resistant notebooks make a fun gift for just about anyone else (especially kids). A good value at $7 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System (Made in USA) — This water filter removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, 99.9999% of all protozoa and 100% of micro plastics. It’s a potentially life-saving gift for campers, hikers, backpackers or those who live in disaster-prone areas. A good value at $18 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and Moosejaw.)

Gifts for Do-It-Yourselfers

• Gaffer Power Professional Grade Gaffer Tape (Made in USA) — Gaffer tape is the perfect stocking stuffer for filmmakers, photographers, handymen…and women who wear backless dresses? Indeed, this cloth tape is commonly used as “boob tape,” in lieu of a bra. A good value at $17 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue — A tube of super glue is ideal for small jobs like eyeglass repair and fixing broken ceramics. It’s also a handy tool for model-makers and DIY manicurists. A good value at $7 or less. (Available at Amazon, Lowe’s and Home Depot.)
• Lufkin Hi-Viz Tape Measure — No toolbox or utility drawer is complete without a good tape measure: One of the most used tools. This is a practical gift for college students, handymen, new homeowners and children who enjoy STEM subjects. A good value at $9 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Post-It Extreme Notes (12-Pads) — These job-site sticky notes can survive rain, snow and extreme winds, making them a practical gift for those who work outside. A good value at $13 or less. (Available at Amazon, Staples and Quill.)
• StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder (Made in USA) — For someone receiving a big screen TV or piece of heavy artwork as a gift, a stud finder is a practical stocking stuffer. Handymen and new homeowners may also find one useful. A good value at $8 or less. (Available at Amazon, Home Depot and Lowe’s.)
• Swiss Army Evolution Knife (Lifetime Guarantee) — A multitool is a fun gift for responsible Boy Scouts and Cadettes. It’s also a practical gift for outdoor enthusiasts to store in a glove compartment, tackle box or backpack. A good value at $20 or less. (Available at Amazon and Adorama.)

Gifts for Drivers

• Oxgord OBD2 Scanner — OBD2 scanners are a great gift for drivers who like to tinker with their vehicles or avoid the auto shop. That said, if you can’t imagine someone changing a tire, don’t buy him (or her) an OBD2 scanner. A good value at $17 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Virtually Indestructible LED Flashlight (Lifetime Guarantee) — Everyone who owns a car should keep a waterproof emergency flashlight in the glove compartment. A flashlight is also a useful gift for dog owners who take late night walks with their pups. A good value at $17 or less. (Available at Amazon and Home Depot.)
• WizGear Universal Phone Mount — A phone holder is a good gift for elderly parents who recently upgraded to a smartphone. Nearly 60% of seniors use cell phones while driving, according to a UC San Diego School of Medicine study. A good value at $7 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and B&H.)
• Contigo Autoseal Travel Mug — A spill-proof, leak-proof insulated travel mug is the ideal gift for anyone who likes to take his or her coffee on the road. A good value at $13 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and Kohl’s.)

Gifts for Fitness Lovers

• All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter Twin Pack (Made in USA) — This American-made face sunscreen gets top marks from The Environmental Working Group and comes in small, handbag-friendly tins. It’s a thoughtful gift for beach lovers and parents with small children. A good value at $21 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• BlenderBottle Pro Series Shaker Bottle (Limited Lifetime Warranty) — This leak-proof, BPA-free shaker bottle is also dishwasher safe, making it a thoughtful gift for those who appreciate longer workouts, but hate blending protein shakes. A good value at $13 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy.)
• Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm (Made in USA) — Body Glide prevents chafing on the chest, thighs and armpits. It’s a thoughtful gift for endurance runners and hikers. A good value at $10 or less. (Available at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods.)
• Nalgene Tritan Narrow Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle (Lifetime Guarantee) — A Nalgene water bottle makes a great Hydro Flask alternative for value-conscious bikers, campers and fitness enthusiasts. And unlike Hydro Flask, this Nalgene bottle is made in the USA. A good value at $9 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and Dick’s Sporting Goods.)
• Senso Waterproof (IPX7) Bluetooth Earbuds — These sweatproof Bluetooth earbuds have a tether that acts as a safety catch during workouts and runs. A good value at $23 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Theraband Resistance Band Set — Resistance bands make a good gift for fitness lovers who also travel frequently. Office workers who can’t make it to the gym regularly may also appreciate these pocket-sized exercise bands. A good value at $10 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)

Gifts for Foodies

• 321Done 4" x 6" Recipe Cards, Set of 50 (Made in USA) — Recipe cards are a useful gift for home cooks and family historians. These cards are durable and functional, wasting no space on borders, decorations or embellishments. A good value at $12 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• AeraWine Infusion Premium Wine Aerator (Made in USA) — Many wine lovers agree that this inexpensive aerator fits well, doesn’t leak and improves the taste of wine immediately after it is poured. A good value at $12 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• French Market Coffee, Coffee & Chicory — When naval blockades cut off the Port of New Orleans during U.S. Civil War, resourceful Louisianans mixed chicory into their coffee to stretch out the supply. The result was a darker, richer coffee with less caffeine. A good value at $5 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Nature Nate’s Raw and Unfiltered Honey — Honey is a classic gift for tea lovers and holistic friends. This brand of honey is well-packaged (it doesn’t crystallize) and is sourced only from bees in the United States and Canada. A good value at $11 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• №8 Carbone Folding Knife (Lifetime Guarantee) — Opinel’s French-made knife is the perfect gift for Francophiles who enjoy a picnic. This versatile blade has a beechwood handle and is useful for cutting bread, fruit and cheese. A good value at $17 or less. (Available at Amazon, Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops.)
• OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Ice Cream Scoop — This sturdy ice cream scoop is made from stainless steel, has a comfortable grip and is dishwasher safe. The pointy tip makes it a good gift for ice cream lovers who buy densely-packed pints. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Amazon, OXO and Bed Bath & Beyond.)
• Vacu Vin Wine Saver With Two Stoppers — The best gift for a wine lover is a great bottle of wine. Failing that, a wine saver is a useful gift for a single friend who enjoys wine, but isn’t likely to finish a bottle in one sitting. A good value at $13 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)

For Science and Technology Lovers

• Kanoodle Puzzle Game — Logic-based board games can increase intelligence in children and lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in the elderly, according to recent studies. What better gift for kids and grandparents (to play together). A good value at $11 or less. (Available at Amazon, Staples and Michaels.)
• Neapolitan Astronaut Ice Cream Sandwiches, 10-Pack (Made in USA) — Freeze-dried ice cream was designed for NASA, but it never made it into orbit. Nevertheless, space lovers of all ages are likely to appreciate “astronaut ice cream.” These dehydrated Neapolitan ice-cream sandwiches (vanilla, chocolate and strawberry) are made in the USA. A good value at $25 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Energizer Connect Smart A19 LED Bulb — A smart light bulb can be a fun gift for college students, people who entertain, or anyone with a home automation system that supports Alexa or Google Home. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Amazon, Home Depot and Walmart.)
• Anker PowerWave Pad 10W Qi-Certified Wireless Charger — The science behind Qi wireless chargers (electromagnetic fields!) is as fascinating as it is useful. A good value at $11 or less. (Available at Amazon and Amazon.)
• Cable Matters (USB-IF Certified) 10 Gbps USB 3.1 Type-C Gen 2 Cable — There are eight USB-C standards, and it takes a 373 page PDF to explain the differences between them. Nevertheless, any geek will know on the spot that this is a worthwhile cable. A good value at $14 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Kasa Smart Plug by TP-Link (HS-100) — Like a modern day version of “The Clapper,” smart plugs are a fun gift for those who enjoy using Alexa, Google Home and IFTTT to automate things. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Amazon, Walmart and B&H.)
• Crazy Aaron’s Enchanting Unicorn Glow Thinking Putty (Made in USA) — This non-toxic silicone putty stays soft forever and doesn’t stick to hands. Kids are likely to appreciate the glow-in-the-dark “unicorn” sparkles; parents will appreciate the putty’s stain-free coloring. A good value at $10 or less. (Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and The Paper Store.)

Gifts for Stress Relief

• Flippy Chain Fidget Toy — The “Flippy Chain” is a silent fidget toy, making it a good gift for office workers or college students for don’t want to click-clack their peers into madness. A good value at $6 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Infinity Cube Fidget Toy — The “Infinity Cube” is fun, stress-relieving and small enough to manipulate in one hand. A good value at $9 or less. (Available at Amazon.)
• Monkey Noodles by Impresa Products — The fidget spinner fad never really died, it just hit a saturation point: Everyone who wanted one has one. Meanwhile, there are scads of sensory toys that kids and adults can use for stress management. A good value at $10 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Tangle Fidget Toy (3-Pack) — Tangle fidgets are a popular toy for those who suffer from anxiety. (Note: This toy separates into small parts that may not be suitable for children). A good value at $12 or less. (Available at Amazon and Walmart.)
• Ty Flip Sequin Beanie Boo — Flip-sequin stuffed animals are a fun gift for kids, collectors and co-workers who decorate their desk with toys. The reversible sequins also serve as a sensory aid that can be relaxing to manipulate. A good value at $10 or less. (Available at Amazon, Party City and Barnes & Noble.)
• Vive Therapy Putty (3-oz. x 4) — Vive putty is a sensory toy with a purpose: It is used to develop finger and hand strength. A good value at $15 or less. (Available at Amazon.)

About the Author: John DeFeo is a data scientist who specializes in the analysis of online customer reviews. He is the moderator of a charitable sub-Reddit that lists daily Amazon deals and was formerly the head of editorial insights for brands such as Live Science, Space.com and Tom’s Guide.